Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Secures World Championship Spot with 400m Triumph at US Trials
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has once again proven why she is one of the most electrifying names in track and field. The two-time Olympic champion and reigning world record holder in the 400m hurdles stamped her ticket to the upcoming World Championships after an impressive performance at the US trials in Eugene, Oregon, on Saturday. Running at Hayward Field, McLaughlin-Levrone clocked a blistering 48.90 seconds to claim victory in the 400m flat—an event she only recently committed to for the 2025 season.
This victory was more than just a qualifying race; it marked a significant chapter in McLaughlin-Levrone’s career. Known across the globe as the most dominant 400m hurdler in history, she has spent the last six years unbeaten in her signature event. Yet, despite her unprecedented success, including shattering world records and winning Olympic gold medals, the 25-year-old star has chosen to step outside her comfort zone in pursuit of a new challenge: mastering the 400m without hurdles.
Speaking after her win, McLaughlin-Levrone revealed that the decision to pivot to the flat 400m was made only recently, just ahead of the prestigious Prefontaine Classic Diamond League meeting in early July. “Going into Pre we had an idea we wanted to focus on the 400,” she said. “This is a challenge, and it’s not as comfortable for us, but I wanted to challenge myself. I felt like this is the year to step out of the box and really push myself in a different way.”
Her candid reflections highlighted the mindset behind this transition. “Obviously it’s uncomfortable, but I wanted to commit to it and I’m committed to it. I’m just excited to see where I can push myself,” McLaughlin-Levrone told reporters, adding that there would be no attempt to double in the hurdles for Tokyo this year. “No, we’ll focus just on the 400. I think that’s a daunting task in and of itself. It’s a very competitive field, so I respect those competitors for sure, and I want to make sure I can give my all to those races.”
McLaughlin-Levrone’s dominance in the 400m hurdles is legendary. She became the first woman to break the 52-second barrier in 2021, then lowered the mark even further by dipping under 51 seconds the following year. At the Paris Olympics, she obliterated her own world record to capture another gold medal. Yet, when it comes to the flat 400m, she is taking a more measured approach. “Everyone talks about the American record, of course. That’s going to come when it’s supposed to come,” she said. “This year and this event have taught me patience. I’ve learned a lot about myself. I’ve learned a lot about the 400. Ultimately, every day is about stepping on the track, being the best I can be, figuring out a race that is very foreign to me, and taking on new challenges.”
Her performance in Eugene suggests she is already adapting well. McLaughlin-Levrone surged ahead early in the race, setting a commanding pace over the first 200 meters before powering down the final stretch to seal an emphatic win. Isabella Whittaker finished second in 49.59 seconds, while Aaliyah Butler took third with 49.91 seconds.
With this victory, McLaughlin-Levrone has not only secured her place at the World Championships but also sent a strong message to her global rivals: she is not just a hurdles specialist—she is a complete 400m runner capable of challenging the very best. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on her to see whether she can translate her hurdles dominance into the flat event and possibly rewrite yet another chapter in athletics history.